Category: TV Channels

Usha International extends partnership with Mumbai Indians women’s cricket for second season

Mumbai: Usha International, India’s leading consumer durables brand, is pleased to announce the continuation of its partnership with the Mumbai Indians women’s team for the second consecutive year, building on the decade long partnership. Echoing the team’s slogan ‘Aali Re’ (the women have arrived) Usha International is excited to continue its journey with the Mumbai Indians family – a journey that promises to develop and strengthen women’s cricket, both domestically and internationally. The first season of the league was a resounding success for MI, having lifted the inaugural trophy but also to packed stadium, fans tuning in to watching the games, and players now becoming household names.

This year, Mumbai Indians will play the first game of the season at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium on 23 February 2024. The league will feature 20 matches and two playoffs, leading to the final on March 17. The first half, including 11 matches, will be in Bengaluru, and the rest, including 9 league matches and the playoffs, will be in New Delhi at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The Mumbai Indians women’s team, led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur includes world-class players from India and abroad such as Pooja Vastrakar, Yastika Bhatia, Natalie Sciver-Brunt, Amelia Kerr, Hayley Matthews, Shabim Ismail, and the find of season 1 Saika Ishaque, among others.

Usha International head of sports initiatives Komal Mehra commented, “The incredible visibility and enthusiasm generated by the league’s inaugural season have been truly inspiring. Our partnership with the Mumbai Indians aligns with Usha’s ethos to promote health, active and joyful living through sports. Joining hands with the MI Women’s Team would contribute to the development of sports among women in India by showcasing the aspirational value of being a sportswoman demonstrating our commitment to inclusivity and sports for all.”

Speaking on the partnership, the Mumbai Indians spokesperson said, “Our decade-long collaboration with Usha International reflects the strength of our partnership. As both brands have evolved and grown, this journey stands as a testament to the seamless synergies we share. Here’s to continued success and growth together.”

Usha has been a fervent supporter and promoter of a wide range of inclusive sporting initiatives across the country. This includes its affiliation with the Mumbai Indians; Ultimate Flying Disc; Football; Ladies Amateur and Junior Golf; Cricket for the deaf; and Sports for the visually challenged, including athletics, kabaddi, judo, and powerlifting. The brand is deeply committed to reviving long-forgotten sports and supporting indigenous Indian regional sports such as Kalaripayattu, Mallakhamb, Siat Khnam, Thang-Ta, Turai Kabaddi, Saz-Loung, Mardani Khel, Satoliya, Yoga, and Silambam.

February 23, 2024
Get Ready for a Ride of Love: Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor to Spark Bawaal on your screens!

Mumbai: Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as the highly anticipated film Bawaal gears up for its &pictures premiere on &Pictures on 25 February Sun at 8 pm. Starring our most loved student who now becomes a teacher, Varun Dhawan and our heart’s dhadak every time we see her on screen, Jahnvi Kapoor, this love story, directed by the visionary Nitesh Tiwari, promises to be an unparalleled storytelling experience.

Bawaal isn’t just another love story; it’s an imperfect one, laden with complexities, nuances, and raw emotions, but it is a testament to the beautiful chaos of love where imperfections become the threads that bind hearts together. Set against the backdrop of real-life situations, the film delves deep into the intricacies of relationships, portraying love in its most genuine form – flawed yet beautiful, imperfect yet captivating.

The film is about Ajay (Varun Dhawan), a self-serving, self-aggrandising man whose ‘image’ matters to him more than anything else and to that goal, he has created an impression built on lies and deception. When Nisha (Janhvi Kapoor) enters his life, he sees in her the ‘perfect wife’ for his ‘perfect’ life. But it turns out, Nisha has epilepsy, which reasons Ajay to not take her anywhere lest she has a seizure and embarrass him publicly. As the film unfolds, they both sort through their differences and misunderstandings and a space of comfort within each other.

The film effortlessly blends emotions and comedy, making it a delightful watch for audiences of all ages. The screenplay is skillfully crafted, keeping the viewers engaged from start to finish. The movie also features a romantic chartbuster song Tumhe Kitna Pyaar Karte sung by Arijit Singh and Mithoon which has been an audience favorite.

Varun Dhawan reflected,” Bawaal has been a transformative journey, urging me to stretch my limits as an actor and explore unfamiliar territories. Delving into the intricate layers of my character was a gratifying experience, revealing nuances I hadn’t explored before. The film unfolds as a mesmerizing rollercoaster of emotions, and I’m eagerly anticipating viewers to be captivated by the thrill and entertainment during the & Pictures premiere. This project marks a significant crescendo in my acting journey, and I hope the audience resonates with the intensity and excitement radiating from their screens.”

Jahnvi Kapoor, the mesmerizing lead actress of Bawaal expressed, “Embarking on the intricate journey of portraying Nisha Dixit was both challenging and immensely fulfilling. It compelled me to delve into uncharted territories of my craft, and I’m appreciative of the opportunity to breathe life into this intriguing character. The narrative holds a special place in my heart, and the premiere of &pictures marks an incredible chance to unveil this gripping tale to an even broader audience, amplifying the excitement of the entire experience.”

The visionary behind Bawaal, Nitesh Tiwari said,“Directing Bawaal was an incredibly fulfilling creative journey. Bringing this narrative to life, and now with & Pictures premiere, fills me with pride. I am eager for the audience to embark on the emotional rollercoaster it unfolds. Bawaal, featuring the exceptional talents of Janhvi Kapoor and Varun Dhawan, transcends the realms of a typical film; it’s a storytelling experience that resonates with the eccentricities of life. This cinematic venture is a labour of love, delving into the highs and lows of existence. Get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting Bawaal magic, on & Pictures.”

February 23, 2024
Key session at Ideas of India Summit 3.0, women achievers gained central focus

Mumbai: In a key session at Ideas of India Summit 3.0, women achievers gained central focus. “Growing up with techno-bureaucrat and mathematician parents, education was ingrained as a priority in my life from the start. My father had a remarkable talent for explaining the physics of everyday occurrences, which instilled in me a deep curiosity and appreciation for the world around me,” said Nandini Harinath, deputy director of Spacecraft Operations Area, ISRO Telemetry Tracking and Command Network, ISRO, sharing her experience of growing up the ranks from Junior Engineer at ISRO to leading major space missions such as Mangalyaan and Chandrayaan-2

On the inaugural day of ABP Network’s flagship event, the ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0, leading women intellectuals and achievers in STEM fields joined together to explore the theme ‘Women in STEM: Working in the Trenches, Reaching for the Stars’, shedding light on how women defy all challenges experienced in the modern-day workforce and their road to success.

Nandini Harinath also shared the importance of family support, teamwork, and personal well-being. “Juggling the demands of family and a career in the space industry has often felt like navigating an obstacle course. However, I firmly believe in the power of teamwork. Throughout my journey, I have learned the importance of seeking support from those around me. No accomplishment is achieved in isolation, and leaning on my family and society for assistance has been crucial during times of need”, she added.

Nandini Harinath has been an indispensable asset to ISRO, with her dedication and expertise in space science. Explaining the future of India’s space exploration efforts, she said, “With the emergence of private players in the sector, the possibilities are endless. I envision India taking a leading role in space travel, not only for scientific advancement but also for the profound impact it could have on shaping our future as a society.”

Discussing her journey and the rise of women scientists at ISRO, Dr Nigar Shaji, Project Director, Aditya L-1 Mission, ISRO, said, “Since school, I have believed in pursuing the uncommon path. My parents, particularly my father, a math graduate turned agricultural specialist, encouraged me. At ISRO, there is no glass ceiling, passion is supported. For women, balancing work, family, and personal life is essential, with health as a priority. As far as the space industry in concern, the Aditya mission is crucial for understanding the sun and space weather, ensuring Earth’s protection. Leading the world in the space industry should be our aim. Visibility for women in STEM is vital; education must be engaging and inclusive from the grassroots.”

Elaborating on the vital role played by women in STEM to break the glass ceiling and drive India’s growth, Prof (Dr) Annapurni Subramaniam, FASc., FNASc., Director, Indian Institute of Astrophysics, said, “It is important to be happy with yourself, as a woman we have multiple roles to play and one cannot bend to all requirements, there has to be a distinction. As such, there is limited conversation about women’s health. It is important to create a framework at home, where support can be asked from the family and traditional roles can be given a pushback. The Indian Institute of Astrophysics observatory in Kodaikanal is celebrating its 125 years, which is capturing the Sun’s data. We have a night-time observatory in Ladakh, 2500 metres above sea level. Our capabilities in astronomy are well established, thus India is being looked at as a support and resource in important missions for ground-based and space-based. India is also a major partner in two important projects in gravitational wave direction- LIGO, and Square Kilometer Array to look at the universe at very early stages.”

The ABP Network’s ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0 spotlighting the ‘The People’s Agenda’ brought a confluence of ideas and ideators to a common platform celebrating the country’s people and its plurality. The two-day summit hosted policymakers, cultural ambassadors, industry experts, celebrities, business leaders, economists, and leading luminaries to delve into the fundamental ideas of liberty, justice, equality, and diversity that define India, its society, culture, and politics. The meaningful deliberations on diverse topics had the brightest minds across sectors providing insights about the nation’s trajectory and its journey to become Viksit Bharat.

February 23, 2024
YES BANK and CNBC-TV18 partner for ‘The Growth Summit’ Ahmedabad edition

Mumbai: The second edition of YES BANK and CNBC-TV18’s – The Growth Summit: A vision to a $10 trillion economy, in association with Max Life Insurance, was held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The event convened policymakers, industry leaders, startup founders, innovators, and academic experts to deliberate on crucial factors essential for India’s economic progress. Central to the Summit’s discussions was the government’s ambitious 25-year plan aimed at positioning India as the world’s third-largest economy with a GDP of $10 trillion.

In his opening remarks at the Summit, YES BANK MD & CEO Prashant Kumar said, “Gujarat emerges as the cornerstone of India’s economic ascent, contributing a staggering 33% to the nation’s exports in FY 2022-23. With ambitions to reach a $1 trillion economy by 2030, Gujarat’s leadership extends beyond traditional sectors, fostering a thriving ecosystem for innovation and infrastructure development. As the world’s largest diamond hub in Surat and the birthplace of India’s first operational greenfield Smart City, Gujarat positions itself as the beacon of opportunity. The state is poised to absorb the influx of businesses seeking alternatives to China, catalysing India’s journey towards economic supremacy.”

During his address, Kumar announced the launch of ‘Yes Private’ in Ahmedabad, which is the Bank’s newest market offering that aims to partner HNI Business owners and C-Suite executives in their endeavour to leverage the opportunities on the road towards a $10 trillion Indian economy.

He added, “Yes Private has been thoughtfully curated to complement the retail and wholesale banking offerings in the market. It integrates the Bank’s expertise across the spectrum and brings a full-stack product suite for HNIs across family banking, business banking, wealth management and succession planning needs. The programme also lays out extraordinary privileges and experiences for clients pertaining to their distinct lifestyles in India and abroad.”

The event kicked off with a thought-provoking discussion on ‘Strengthening Indian Business from Within’ in conversation with Rasna chairman & MD Piruz Khambatta. He stated “India’s growth narrative must encompass more than just development; it must address the challenges faced by its youth, including migration due to inadequate resources like clean water and air. India’s trajectory of growth, akin to that of South Korea, Germany, Japan, and China, is undeniable, yet we must define our unique growth model. As we navigate through discussions, let’s advocate for an inclusive ‘India model’ of growth that acknowledges both its benefits and challenges, fostering sustainable progress for generations to come.”

Subsequently, panel discussion on the topic ‘From India to the World: Unleashing A New Era of Global Ambitions’ with Ashish Soparkar (MD, Meghmani Organics), Dr Vishal Rajgarhia (director, Finecure Pharmaceuticals Ltd) Rajiv Gandhi (MD & CEO, Hester Biosciences) Chirag Pan (MD & CEO, Pan Healthcare) and Behram Mehta (founder & MD, Aava Natural Mineral water) captivated the audience at the summit.

The event progressed with an engaging conversation on ‘India’s Role as A Global Hub of Growth’ featuring AMUL (GCMMF) MD Jayen Mehta, where he said, “Agriculture is the base of our economy. However, in terms of numbers, still agriculture contribution is less than 20%. Hence, we need to support agriculture and farmers, while also working on doubling their income which is also the professor policy of the government. These efforts will help in supporting the number of people associated with agriculture which is more than 60-70 per cent of the population. The country still depends on agriculture as part of its primary income. So this is where a combination of policies that are pro farmer, pro-development and pro-market is the way forward for our country. So if you can build a bridge and if only 20% of us convert our regular food into organic food, the GDP from agriculture will rise. These are very, very small and objective steps one has to take and organisations like ours are working towards the same using the cooperative model and building the country.”

In a special address, Max Life Insurance MD & CEO Prashant Tripathy added, “As India makes significant strides towards its ambitious goal of becoming a 10 trillion-dollar economy by 2030-31, there’s a growing need for India Inc. to partner with the government and democratize the benefits of this growth. It’s imperative that we ensure the advantages of our economic progress reach every segment of the society. There’s a strong call for players in the life insurance industry to align their strategies with IRDAI’s vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’- which calls for inclusive insurance coverage for India at large. Further, innovation and customisation must guide our product offerings to cater to the diverse and distinct needs of modern consumers, while distribution channels need to evolve to deliver convenience at every touchpoint, be it digital or otherwise. As we move forward, cross-functional collaboration supported by collective action will serve as the cornerstone for fostering inclusive growth, contributing to the shared prosperity of our nation.”

The evening continued with an engaging panel discussion ‘Scaling the Global Value Chain’, with insights from industry experts Vineet Mittal (director, Navitas Green Solutions) Dr Viranchi Shah (national president, IDMA and director, Saga Laboratories) Aditi Gupta (managing partner, Menstrupedia) Sandeep Mittal (MD, Corrtech Energy Ltd) and Ravi Bhamidipaty (MD, TCT Ventures). They shared valuable insights on navigating global markets, contributing to an enriching discussion for the audience.

Taking the evening towards its end a thought-provoking session conducted by leading neuroscientist & NeuroLeap founder Kumaar Bagrodia on ‘The Neuroscience of Investing’ was held.

Concluding the summit was the final enticing conversation between CNBC-TV18 anchor Shruti Mishra and Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami. Talking about his journey, Shami said, “If your hard work and luck are in your favour, then I don’t think anybody can stop you. You just have to stay loyal to your game and keep working hard. I believe nobody can take away my luck from me. My family has been incredibly supportive and has played an integral role in my journey.”

The Ahmedabad edition of ‘The Growth Summit – vision for a $10 trillion economy’ underscored India’s trajectory towards economic prosperity, as industry leaders and experts converged to chart a path towards a $10 trillion economy. With diverse voices and ideas from different industries of Gujarat, the summit left an indelible mark on the audience and shared a unique vision for India’s journey towards achieving its ambitious economic goals. The upcoming Summits are to be held in Bangalore, Delhi and Hyderabad in the weeks to come.

For more information visit: https://www.cnbctv18.com/ms/thegrowthsummit/

February 23, 2024
Ex-Times Group chairman Ashok Jain honored as ‘Heroes of Mumbai’ by Maha govt

Mumbai: Seventeen distinguished figures instrumental in Mumbai’s advancement were celebrated as their busts were revealed at Kilachand Garden in Girgaon, with BJP national president J P Nadda and Maharashtra deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis in attendance.

Former Bennett, Coleman and Company Ltd (The Times Group) chairman late Ashok Kumar Jain, was among the esteemed honorees. Times Group Managing Director Vineet Jain lauded the initiative aimed at celebrating icons who have shaped the financial and cultural capital of India. “It gives me immense pride to be standing here in the presence of such luminaries to acknowledge the recognition to my late father, Shri Ashok Jain. As Chairman of The Times of India Group, he had a great affinity and affection for Mumbai,” said Vineet Jain.

The 17 ‘heroes of Mumbai’ include Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, Lata Mangeshkar, Dadasaheb Phalke, Homi Bhabha, JRD Tata, Dhirubhai Ambani, Sachin Tendulkar, and VD Savarkar among others.

Recalling the rise and rise of The Times Group with its roots in Mumbai, Vineet Jain said: “The Times Group was not only headquartered here, but also initiated all its expansions—launching new newspapers and magazines—from here itself during his lifetime. And thus, Mumbai was at the heart of so much of what he did and worked towards, while establishing one of Asia’s largest media companies.”

The idea was conceived by state cabinet minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha. “This initiative aims to honour influential figures by unveiling their busts and acknowledging their contributions to Mumbai’s progress in various facets, such as economic prosperity, safety, and cultural enrichment. The programme seeks to serve as an enduring source of inspiration for Mumbaikars,” said Lodha explaining the inspiration behind ‘heroes of Mumbai’ project.

“On behalf of our entire family and the larger Times Group, I would like to thank the efforts of Lodha and the entire Maharashtra government for this singular honour to our late father,” said The Times Group the MD.

February 23, 2024
ABP Network’s ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0 opens with spectacular focus on people

Mumbai: In the year of India’s 18th general election, ABP Network’s flagship event ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0 launched to an enthralling opening, celebrating the spirit of democracy and plurality while converging many ideas of India.

Representing India’s business world, Mahindra Group group CEO and MD and FICCI president Dr Anish Shah took stage to share his perspective on the pivotal role industries and enterprises will have to play for accelerating national growth and economic prosperity.

Dr Anish Shah remarked, “Over the next seven years, Indian GDP will add as much to the global GDP as the entire European Union combined.”

Deliberating upon the topic ‘Viksit Bharat: The Road to 2047’, Mahindra Group group CEO and MD and FICCI president Dr Anish Shah expressed, “The Union Budget has prioritized economics over politics, adopted fiscal discipline and invested more in capex. The RBI has done a stellar job in containing inflation. Infrastructure is being massively developed to make manufacturing competitive in India. To make this vision a reality, each one of us has to play a role.”

Setting the goals for the industry, Dr Anish Shah, remarked “India envisions to be a 30 trillion economy by 2047 to be a Viksit Bharat. This means manufacturing should be 25 per cent of GDP. We should be more ambitious and make manufacturing grow 16 times and exports grow 11 times.”

Setting the spotlight on the people with the Summit theme “The People’s Agenda”, the two-day-long intellectual discourse was set around how India can leverage its population potential to reinforce its leadership position globally on the way to becoming a developed economy.

The ABP Network’s ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0 spotlighting the ‘The People’s Agenda’ brought a confluence of ideas and ideators to a common platform celebrating the country’s people and its plurality. The two-day summit hosted policymakers, cultural ambassadors, industry experts, celebrities, business leaders, economists, and leading luminaries to delve into the fundamental ideas of liberty, justice, equality, and diversity that define India, its society, culture, and politics. The meaningful deliberations on diverse topics had the brightest minds across sectors providing insights about the nation’s trajectory and its journey to become Viksit Bharat.

February 23, 2024
Times Network launches Public Manch

Mumbai: Times Network a broadcast network, announces ‘Public Manch’ – an exclusive show aimed to engage and empower voters. With a key focus on first-time voters, the show hosted by Navika Kumar, will be held at various colleges and campuses across the country. Public Manch, a weekly prime-time show will air every Friday starting February 23, at 7:55 PM on Times Now Navbharat and 9 PM on Times Now.

Ahead of the general elections 2024, Public Manch acts as a direct conduit between the nation’s youth and renowned political personalities, bureaucrats and thought leaders. The maiden episode of this show will feature the political strategist, Prashant Kishore. Public Manch – a dynamic platform, that enables the voters to understand the specifics of various issues before they cast their votes.

Times Now and Times Now Navbharat group editor-in-chief Navika Kumar said, ” The 25 per cent increase in first-time voters for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, compared to 2019, underscores a significant shift in the political landscape. Public Manch serves as a crucial platform, bridging the gap between the youth and political discourse. Reckoned as India’s Election News Headquarters, I am confident the show will help prepare voters as they step into the forefront of the electoral process.”

As Public Manch embarks on a nationwide journey, the stage is set for an illuminating exploration of India’s political landscape, fostering dynamic conversations with influential figures on the prestigious campuses of Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Guwahati, Patna, and Bengaluru.

February 23, 2024
ABP Network’s ‘Ideas of India Summit’ edition three to spotlight “The People’s Agenda” on 23 & 24 February in Mumbai

Mumbai: As India, the world’s largest democracy, braces itself for the upcoming 18th General Election, ABP Network, the country’s leading multi-language news network, is set to host the third edition of its flagship event, the ABP Network ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0. The summit is scheduled for 23 and 24 February 2024, in Mumbai.

The ABP Network ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0 aims to shift the spotlight onto the people of India, bringing together newsmakers, thought leaders, entertainers, and economists to provide insights into the nation’s trajectory. From a hardline conservative former Home Secretary of UK, Suella Braverman, to an Emmy-nominated TV Host Padma Lakshmi who display the power of the Indian diaspora to a path-finding economist Arvind Panagariya heading the 16th Finance Commission; from the beloved actor Kiara Advani to a filmmaking couple Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao who tell the untold stories, the finest minds from diverse sectors will converge to discuss the future of the country and its people amidst some of the most concerning developing uncertainties in the world.

This year’s mega edition, themed “The People’s Agenda,” will serve as a platform for intellectuals, experts, and achievers to deliberate on India’s roadmap. The summit will explore how India can leverage its population potential and strengthen its global leadership position in the face of emerging uncertainties.

Prominent personalities who will share their perspectives will also include Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Dr. Shashi Tharoor, Third time Lok Sabha MP and Chairman of Parliament’s Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilisers; Dr. Anish Shah, Group CEO of Mahindra Group and New FICCI President; Prof. Sunil Khilnani, Historian and Political Scientist, Javed Akhtar, celebrated Poet, Lyricist, and Author; accomplished Actors Kareena Kapoor Khan and Sobhita Dhulipala; Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of J&K and Vice President of JKNC; Piyush Pandey, Ad Guru; Amish Tripathi, Author and Former Diplomat; Subodh Gupta, renowned artist; Shashank ND, Co-Founder of Practo; Poonam Mahajan, MP, BJP; Priyanka Chaturvedi, Rajya Sabha MP, and Deputy Leader of Shiv Sena; Madhur Bhandarkar, accomplished Film Director and Script Writer; Ila Arun, versatile Actor, Singer and Writer; Sanjay Jha, Author and Columnist and more.

ABP Network CEO Avinash Pandey said, “After the tremendous success of the first two editions, we are immensely proud to present a grander and richer edition of ABP Network ‘Ideas of India’ Summit. The last two editions were highly celebrated and appreciated because of the confluence of ideas on our platform. With the next General Election around the corner, India is at the cusp of making history. It is the year of great expectations which will shape the future course of the country. As ‘Ideas of India’ Summit is the foremost platform that celebrates country’s plurality, it was important for all of us to put central focus on the people of nation, their aspirations, and their story. As India advances on the journey of being the Viksit Bharat, the world is watching us emerge. Our emergence at the global arena will be dependent on how we leverage the potential of our people. It is with these thoughts I am pleased to present to you the ‘Ideas of India Summit 3.0’ which will host a spectacular line-up of public welfare thinkers and intellectuals as we discuss the way forward for India to project its national self-image at the global stage.”

Spanning two days, the third edition will delve into the fundamental ideas of liberty, justice, equality, and diversity that define India. The Summit will feature captivating discourses on sustainable growth and assess alterations in society, culture, and politics. With over 35 sessions and 60 speakers and session chairs, the ABP Network Ideas of India Summit 3.0 promises a fascinating and enriching experience.

The summit will be available for viewing on February 23 and 24, 2024, across all digital platforms of the ABP Network. Watch it live here – https://news.abplive.com/

February 22, 2024
News18 Tamil Nadu presents Thoranam Aaiyiram, a festival of joy, culture and community in Puducherry

Mumbai: News18 Tamil Nadu is proud to present ‘Thoranam Aaiyiram – The Grand Carnival’, a flagship event that is set to captivate citizens and visitors in Puducherry. Designed to be a vibrant showcase of culture, entertainment, and community spirit, the event offers visitors a unique experience to come together for three unforgettable days of fun, learning, and shopping. The carnival will take place at Old Port Puducherry from 23 to 25 February 2024, starting daily at 3:00 PM, with the grand opening ceremony set for 23 February at 6:00 PM.

Thoranam Aaiyiram will feature an array of attractions tailored to suit every taste. The attendees can look forward to exploring an eclectic mix of shopping stalls, tantalizing food offerings, and engaging activities. From pottery workshops to baking demonstrations, the learning zone promises enriching experiences for all ages. It also includes a dedicated kids’ zone, along with live bands, concerts, and mesmerizing dance performances for the entertainment seekers. Additionally, attendees can participate in various games and activities and get a chance to win exciting prizes.

Distinguished guests set to grace the inauguration ceremony include Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, Hon’ble Lt. Governor of Puducherry; Shri. N. Rangasamy, chief minister of Puducherry; and Shri. K. Lakshminarayanan, Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Govt of Puducherry.

The carnival is presented by Pondicherry Tourism, co-powered by Fybros Switches – Switch to Life, Satyabhama Institute of Science and Technology, Pondy Thanga Maaligai and Reliance, with a special partnership from Ponvandu Matic Liquid. The event is supported by associate sponsors Strong Aana Ply Sharonply, De’Shayra Skinz and Shri Venkateshwara Group of Institutions.

February 22, 2024
Sustainability 100+ Summit in Karnataka drives collaboration and empowerment for sustainable growth

Mumbai: Marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future for Karnataka, the inaugural Sustainability 100+ Summit, a joint initiative by AB InBev India and Network18, successfully concluded on 7 February. The summit, themed “”Sustainable Future through Innovative Strategies in Climate Change and Water Stewardship” brought together prominent voices from government, industry, and civil society to discuss and drive collaborative action on critical sustainability challenges in the state. . Envisioned as a platform for transformative dialogue, the summit’s agenda was meticulously crafted around four crucial pillars: Climate Actions, Smart Agriculture, Water Stewardship, and Circular Packaging The Karnataka Government, a staunch advocate for sustainability, hailed Sustainability 100+ for its visionary initiative and underscored the pivotal role of unified action in realising our sustainable development goals.

The event featured a distinguished keynote address by the deputy chief minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivakumar, who emphasised the importance of collaboration and empowerment for achieving sustainable growth. Shivakumar said, As far as renewable energy is concerned, we have taken a leading effort. We have produced more than 10000 MW of renewable energy in the past two years. Let’s take it forward. Together, Karnataka will be much greener. We want to see that the natural and the nature mix together.”

He added, “In our state of Karnataka, we have embarked on numerous initiatives aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. From harnessing renewable energy to fostering green agriculture, our commitment to sustainability remains unwavering, regardless of our partnership with corporate entities. I urge everyone here to embrace the spirit of innovation and environmental stewardship by participating in this 100+ Sustainability Awards. This initiative celebrates those making strides in climate action, water stewardship, circular packaging, and smart agriculture.”

Applauding the Sustainability 100+ initiative, the Chief Guest of the summit, LK Atheeq, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister of Karnataka, shared the initiatives taken by the state government to achieve the sustainability goals. Addressing the gathering, he said, “Our approach to sustainability revolves around four key pillars: energy, transport, water, and waste management.”

He further elaborated, “In energy, Karnataka proudly leads in renewable sources, with 63% of our 32 GW capacity coming from solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. In transport, we are spearheading sustainable public transport initiatives, including the introduction of 500 electric vehicles in Bangalore and orders for 1800 electric buses. Solid waste management is a priority, with a systematic campaign promoting waste segregation and recycling. We believe in turning waste into wealth, contributing to a circular economy.”

Uniting in support of a sustainable future, Budweiser Brewing Company APAC CEO & Co-Chair, Jan Craps said, “Our commitment to sustainability in India involves investing in water recharge stations, renewable energy, and farmer collaborations. Our goal is carbon neutrality by 2040, extending across our supply chain.”

AB InBev India president Kartikeya Sharma said, “We take a great amount of pride in our efforts towards agriculture and our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals of having fully skilled, connected and financially empowered farmers. These farmers and our operations are at great lengths, but this is where, ultimately, the power of the total ecosystem kicks in. The impact we are creating in one part of India is generating jobs in another part of India, contributing to revenue in a completely disassociated part of India, and that sort of the end to an impact. Our goal is the 2040 net zero objective as far as carbon neutrality is concerned, and that’s what we are working towards.”

Network18 Media & Investments Digital & president – Corporate Strategy Puneet Singhvi, emphasised the critical importance of unified action, stating, “Effecting meaningful change necessitates a concerted, collective endeavor. At Network18, we staunchly advocate for the power of collaboration to magnify endeavors and yield impactful solutions. Leveraging our expansive network platforms, we serve as a catalyst for raising awareness and nurturing dialogue on pressing issues such as sustainability. Teaming up with AB InBev, for Sustainability 100+, our joint mission is to amplify voices, ignite action, and spearhead initiatives that chart the course towards a sustainable and equitable future for all.”

Through its inclusive approach and impactful discussions, the Sustainability 100+ Karnataka State Summit has catalysed momentum for sustainable practices, setting a precedent for collective action and driving positive change in the region.

February 22, 2024